Paiste calls its 80-inch, or roughly two-metre, Symphonic gong the largest playable gong in the world [1], while the gongs in our shop range from 40 to 80 cm in diameter. Types of gong differ in shape, surface and metal thickness, and this determines both the sound and the kind of mallet and stand you will need.
Gong or tam-tam: the two main gong families
Paiste writes that gongs have been played in European orchestras since about 1790, and that ever since, flat gongs have been called tam-tams and those with a raised boss in the centre gongs. In the languages of the instruments’ homelands, both are called gongs [2]. According to the Vienna Symphonic Library instrument encyclopedia, a tam-tam is a relatively flat disc without a central boss and has no definite pitch [3]. A gong with a boss has a definite pitch and is often struck directly on the boss, while a tam-tam is usually struck off-centre [4].
Meinl Sonic Energy notes that the sound of a gong is determined by its size, thickness, shape, material and playing technique [5]. So two gongs of the same diameter can sound completely different. You will find all types together in the gong category.
Did you know? The music historian David Charlton writes that the tam-tam was first heard in France on 20 September 1790, at a memorial ceremony after the bloody events in Nancy, and then at Mirabeau’s funeral on 4 April 1791, in François-Joseph Gossec’s funeral march “Marche lugubre” [6].
Chao gongs: a folded rim and a sound that builds
The Chao, or chau, gong is one of the best-known Chinese gongs and is also called a tam-tam [7]. In the Meinl catalogue, such gongs are called Chau Tam Tam: they are handmade in China and have a folded rim [5]. Our Chao gongs are made of an alloy of electrolytic copper and tin with a polished surface, and the small bumps on it are a sign of handwork. The sound starts softly and then swells rapidly to its full volume [7].
The mallet can influence this build-up. With a soft mallet the tam-tam’s tone develops more slowly, while a harder mallet accentuates the strike and the sound reaches full strength sooner [3]. The highest-quality Chao gong is heavier than the standard model of the same size: the 80 cm gong weighs about 10.9 kg, the standard model about 9.9 kg [7, 8]. Both come with a mallet. Compare all the models in the Chao gong category.
Wind gong: an almost flat disc
The wind gong has a flat surface without a central boss [9]. Meinl writes that wind gongs are handmade in China and have a wide tonal range and long sustain [5]. Our wind gongs are made of bronze and copper, come in 50, 70 and 80 cm diameters and include a mallet. Larger gongs sound deeper [9].
What distinguishes a wind gong from a Chao gong is its shape: the Chao gong has a folded rim, while the wind gong is almost flat [5]. You will find wind gongs by diameter in the wind gong category.
Mirror gong: a surface that reflects the room
A mirror gong has a surface polished to a mirror shine [10]. Paiste writes that its Symphonic Brilliant gongs are built in the same way as its standard Symphonic gongs, only polished by hand for a long time. Their sound differs only slightly, and the overtones develop a little faster [11]. So, at least with Paiste gongs, the mirror finish mainly changes the look.
Of its Don Conreaux mirror gong, Meinl writes that players can see themselves, the audience or other gong players in it [5, 12], while the gong player Frieda Möhres says that it reflects the surroundings and glints of light [12]. Our mirror gongs come in sizes from 40 to 80 cm, including models engraved with a mandala or the Flower of Life [13, 14]. The Mandala mirror gong comes without a mallet [14]. How the name Flower of Life came about is explained in the article Torus: A Symbol of Sacred Geometry.
Nepalese gongs: hand-forged and engraved
Our three Nepalese gongs are 60 cm in diameter, hand-forged in Nepal from a bronze alloy and set apart by their engravings, such as images of Buddha Shakyamuni or Chenrezig [15, 16]. In Tibetan Buddhism, Chenrezig, or Avalokiteshvara, is the bodhisattva of compassion, and his mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum” is also engraved on the gong [16, 29]. The Chenrezig gong has a deep, folded rim, and the product description states that a soft mallet gives a deep sound, while a hard mallet gives a sharp, clear one [16].
The product descriptions characterise the sound of the Nepalese gong as rich and many-layered, unlike the clear timbre of Chinese gongs [15]. We found few independent sources on how Nepalese gongs are made, so this information comes from our supplier. See the gong with the Chenrezig engraving on its product page.
Earth Tone gongs: a surface neither polished nor lathe-turned
Earth Tone is a trade name, not a musical term, and we did not find it in independent sources. According to the supplier, it is a hand-forged gong of bronze (an alloy of copper and tin) whose surface is neither polished nor lathe-turned [17]. Its tone is deeper and its resonance longer than those of wind gongs. Each gong is handmade, so there are slight differences in sound [17, 18].
We have 55 cm and 70 cm Earth Tone gongs, and both come with a mallet [17, 18].
How to choose the size of a gong
A larger gong sounds deeper but is also heavier: a 50 cm wind gong weighs about 2.2 kg, while an 80 cm one already weighs about 6.87 kg [9]. The Vienna Symphonic Library writes that a cast bronze orchestral tam-tam needs to be about 70 cm in diameter to produce a true orchestral tam-tam sound [3]. Think about transport too. Frieda Möhres says she started with a 24-inch, or 61 cm, gong because she had to take it on a plane [12].
| Gong | Diameter | Weight | Mallet | Current price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chao gong | 40 / 50 / 80 cm | ~1.6 / 2.8 / 9.9 kg | included | €200.50 / €328.90 / €1,218.00 |
| Chao gong (highest quality) | 70 / 80 cm | ~6.8 / 10.9 kg | included | €959.00 / €1,308.40 |
| Wind gong | 50 / 70 / 80 cm | ~2.2 / 4.72 / 6.87 kg | included | €278.10 / €502.80 / €893.40 |
| Mirror gong | 40 cm | ~1.6 kg | not stated on the product page | €162.40 |
| Mandala mirror gong | 60 cm | ~4.4 kg | not included | €294.30 |
| Flower of Life mirror gong | 60 / 70 / 80 cm | ~4.4 / 5.8 / 8.82 kg | not stated on the product page | €294.30 / €479.90 / €631.30 |
| Earth Tone gong | 55 / 70 cm | ~4.3 / 6.7 kg | included | €525.50 / €964.30 |
| Nepalese gong | 60 cm | about 12 kg according to the product page | included with the Chenrezig gong, not stated for the others | €1,880.02 |
Did you know? A gong is also required equipment on large ships. A vessel 100 m or more in length must carry, in addition to a whistle and a bell, a gong whose tone cannot be confused with that of the bell; the gong may be replaced by other equipment with the same sound. In restricted visibility, such a vessel at anchor must ring the bell in the bow for about 5 seconds at least once a minute and immediately afterwards strike the gong rapidly in the stern for about 5 seconds [19].
Mallet and stand
Paiste writes that the sound of a gong is determined by the size, weight and material of the mallet, and advises against overly hard or sharp objects, which can damage the gong or upset its tuning [20]. Meinl explains that larger mallets with a softer head give a deeper and softer sound, while smaller mallets with a harder head produce a brighter and more focused sound [21]. For its Symphonic gongs, Paiste recommends a 260 g mallet for a 20-inch (51 cm) gong, a 420 g mallet for a 26 to 30-inch (66 to 76 cm) gong and a 514 g mallet for a 32 to 36-inch (81 to 91 cm) gong [20].
Our gong mallet with a soft 9 cm head weighs about 354 g and is intended for large gongs, while the mallet with a hard head weighs about 128 g and gives a clearer sound [22, 23]. The small wooden mallet is suitable for 40 to 45 cm gongs, the large one for 50 to 100 cm gongs [24, 25]. Large gongs are often “warmed up” with a light stroke before a strong one, so that the sound develops faster [3, 4]. Frieda Möhres writes that if you imagine the gong as a clock face, the broadest sound spectrum is usually found between 5 and 7 o’clock [12].
Paiste recommends hanging the gong so that it can swing freely forwards, backwards and sideways without touching the stand, and checking the cord from time to time [26]. This manufacturer’s stands are made for specific gong diameters, and some stands have height-adjustable legs [20]. Our gong stand takes gongs up to 100 cm, measures 130 × 41 × 128 cm and weighs about 6.3 kg [27].
Care, transport and delivery
Paiste writes that dirt acts as a damper and stops the gong from sounding freely. The manufacturer recommends cleaning its gongs with a soft cloth, without abrasive, acidic or ammonia-based products, and then coating them with a clear liquid wax. It is better not to touch the gong with your fingers, and when playing, avoid wearing jewellery and clothes with zips or belts. Never stand the gong on its edge, as it can topple over and the rim can deform; for transport, lay it face down, with blankets or foam between gongs [26]. For a mirror gong, it is enough to wipe it with a soft, dry cloth and protect it from damp and direct sunlight [10]. Our padded gong bag fits gongs from 50 to 80 cm [28]. Play at a sensible volume and not right next to the ear [7].
Our gongs, mallets, stand and bags are currently in the supplier’s warehouse, so delivery takes about 15 working days [7, 27]. If you need a gong as a gift or for an event on a particular date, order it in good time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a gong and a tam-tam?
A tam-tam is a relatively flat gong without a central boss and has no definite pitch. In the orchestra, the name gong is used for a gong with a boss in the centre, which does have a definite pitch. In everyday language, both are often called gongs.
What size gong should I choose for my home?
A larger gong sounds deeper but is heavier and more expensive. A 50 cm wind gong weighs about 2.2 kg, while an 80 cm one weighs about 6.87 kg. Our Chao gong description recommends choosing the size to suit the size of the room and how you will use the gong. If you plan to take the gong with you, the lightest are the 40 cm Chao gong and mirror gong (about 1.6 kg) and the 50 cm wind gong (about 2.2 kg).
What should I use to play the gong?
Play with a gong mallet or beater that matches the size of the gong. A larger, softer mallet gives a deeper sound, and a smaller, harder one a brighter sound. Do not use hard or sharp objects, as they can damage the gong.
Does a gong need a stand?
Yes, a gong is hung on a stand so that it swings freely without touching the stand. Our gong stand is suitable for gongs up to 100 cm in diameter.
How do I care for a gong?
Clean it with a soft cloth, without acidic, abrasive or ammonia-based products; a mirror gong only needs wiping with a dry cloth. Do not touch the gong with your fingers or stand it on its edge. Transport the gong face down in a padded bag or box.
How long does it take to receive a gong from frequencies.lv?
Our gongs and their accessories are currently in the supplier’s warehouse, so delivery takes about 15 working days. If you need a gong by a particular date, order it in good time.
Sources
- Paiste, “Gongs”: Symphonic Gongs and Symphonic Brilliant Gongs: www.paiste.com/en/products/gongs-und-orchstral-percussion/gong-1
- Paiste Gongs, “Gong” (gong history, tam-tam and gong names): www.paistegongs.com/gong.php
- Vienna Symphonic Library, instrument encyclopedia, “Tam-tam”: www.vsl.co.at/en/academy/percussion/tam-tam
- Brigham Young University, School of Music, Percussion, “Gongs & Tam-tam”: percussion.byu.edu/gongs-tam-tam
- Meinl Sonic Energy, “Gongs & Tam Tams” (gong series, shape, place of manufacture): meinlsonicenergy.com/en/instruments/gongs/gongs-tam-tams
- D. Charlton, “New sounds for old: tam-tam, tuba curva, buccin”, Soundings 3, 1973 (Royal Holloway, University of London): pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/en/publications/new-sounds-for-old-tam-tam…
- frequencies.lv: Chao gongs (description, sizes, prices, availability, safety): frequencies.lv/products/chao-gongs-2/
- frequencies.lv: Chao gongs (highest quality): frequencies.lv/products/chao-gongs-augstaka-kvalitate/
- frequencies.lv: Wind gong: frequencies.lv/products/veja-gongs/
- frequencies.lv: Mirror gong 40 cm (description, care): frequencies.lv/products/spogulgongs/
- Paiste Gongs, “Symphonic Brilliant Gongs”: www.paistegongs.com/gong.php?fid=2
- Meinl Sonic Energy, F. Möhres, “The gong, my soul mate”: meinlsonicenergy.com/en/topics/the-gong-my-soul-mate
- frequencies.lv: Flower of Life mirror gong: frequencies.lv/products/spogulgongs-flower-of-life-4/
- frequencies.lv: Mandala mirror gong 60 cm: frequencies.lv/products/spogulgongs-mandala-60-cm/
- frequencies.lv: Nepalese gong Buddha Shakyamuni 60 cm: frequencies.lv/products/nepalas-gongs-2/
- frequencies.lv: Nepalese gong Chenrezig 60 cm: frequencies.lv/products/nepalas-gongs-chenrezig-60-cm/
- frequencies.lv: Earth Tone gongs 55 cm: frequencies.lv/products/earth-tone-gongs-55-cm/
- frequencies.lv: Earth Tone gongs 70 cm: frequencies.lv/products/earth-tone-gongs-70-cm/
- Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, Rules 33 and 35, Annex III (likumi.lv): likumi.lv/ta/id/92465
- Paiste Gongs, “Mallets & Stands” (mallet weight by gong size, stands): www.paistegongs.com/mallets.php
- Meinl Sonic Energy, “Gong Mallets & Beaters”: meinlsonicenergy.com/en/instruments/gongs/mallets-beaters
- frequencies.lv: Gong mallet 45 cm: frequencies.lv/products/chao-gongs/
- frequencies.lv: Gong mallet with hard head 40 cm: frequencies.lv/products/gonga-nujina-cieta-galva-40-cm/
- frequencies.lv: Gong mallet, small (33×5 cm): frequencies.lv/products/gonga-sitamais-mazs-33×5-cm/
- frequencies.lv: Gong mallet, large (35×7 cm): frequencies.lv/products/gonga-sitamais-liels-35×7-cm/
- Paiste Gongs, “Support” (striking points, hanging, cleaning, transportation): www.paistegongs.com/support.php
- frequencies.lv: Gong stand (for gongs up to 100 cm): frequencies.lv/products/chao-gongs-100-cm/
- frequencies.lv: Gong bag: frequencies.lv/products/gonga-soma/
- Vassar College, exhibition “Embodying Compassion”: “Chenrezig Altar with Mani Stones” (bodhisattva and mantra om mani padme hum): pages.vassar.edu/embodyingcompassion/?p=1230